Son Woong-jung

About

South Korean former professional footballer and youth coach known for being the father and first coach of Tottenham Hotspur and South Korea star Son Heung-min. He is also known for having played professionally as a forward in South Korea during the 1980s before he eventually became known internationally through his work at the Son Football Academy.

Before fame

He developed an early passion for soccer. He attended Chuncheon High School which was known for its soccer program. He continued his playing career at Myongji University before turning professional in the mid-1980s. He joined Sangmu FC in 1985 where he fulfilled his mandatory military service while also competing at the professional level. He played for Hyundai Horang-i from 1987 to 1988 which is where he recorded his most productive spell as a forward. He then played for Ilhwa Chunma from 1989 to 1990 before he suffered a serious Achilles tendon injury that led to him retiring at 28 years old.He transitioned into coaching after his retirement became widely recognized as a coach in the 2000s after he began coaching his sons. He founded Son Football Academy in 2018.

Trivia

He has repeatedly said that talent is less important than habits, and he believes poor habits formed before age 15 are harder to fix than a lack of natural ability. He famously has required young players at his academy to master ball control and passing before being allowed to shoot goals. 

Family life

He was born in Seosan, South Korea. He is the father of Son Heung-min who is considered one of the most successful Asian soccer players of all time. He has another son named Son Heung-yun who also played soccer before becoming a coach. 

Associated with

He and Kim Pan-Gon are both well-known South Korean soccer coaches.